The Top 10 Products of 2005

Here are the top 10 products from 10 different manufacturers that were featured in editorial coverage in SUPPLY HOUSE TIMES in 2005, based on the number of reader inquiries we received after their publication.

1. Kohler

Kohler introduced its new Purist Hatbox toilet during Fashion Week in New York, Feb. 4-11. The toilet is a tankless electric toilet with an elliptical shape and clean lines and surfaces. It was on display in the main lobby of Fashion Week, and was also available in Kohler's mobile luxury restrooms located throughout Bryant Park in Manhattan, where the week's events were held. The toilet uses the company's Power Lite™ technology - a quiet .2-horsepower electric pump fully enclosed within the toilet bowl that provides a powerful flush using 1.6 gallons of water.

2. Hansgrohe

Hansgrohe has produced a 10-page brochure that showcases the Pharo Showerpanel Lift with color photographs and close-ups of its various components. It includes line drawings and charts with feature descriptions and dimensional data. The bather is able to adjust the height of the entire showerpanel using a hydraulic system that provides an extra eight inches of vertical movement. The Showerpanel Lift combines a seven-inch Downpour Air showerhead, a two-spray handshower and six adjustable bodysprays into a single pre-plumbed and fully assembled package, including flow and temperature controls. On the back of the panel are two integrated accessory shelves for storing soap, shampoo and other showering aids.

3. American Standard

American Standard now offers the Lakeland® kitchen sink with a removable custom-fit basin. This permits the homeowner to enjoy the benefits of two sink bowls in a single-bowl sink. The sink is 33 by 22 inches and fits standard double-bowl cutouts, and comes in glossy enamel colors ranging from understated neutrals to vibrant jewel tones.

4. Watts Radiant

Watts Radiant introduced its 90-page 2005 hydronic catalog. Several of the new items the catalog features are in the manifold line, including the new modular radiant manifolds - SnapMan, new thermostats and controls including a receiver and zone valve/actuator, and Hydronex modular control panels. An interactive catalog is also available online.

5. NIBCO

NEXT-Pure™ is a complete PEX potable water system that contains fittings, valves, connections and pipe. The pipe contains a UV stabilization package, which protects it from damaging sunlight during installation and storage. It also contains no toxic chemicals, is chlorine resistant and meets the ASTM F2023 standard. It is available in 3/8- through 1-inch sizes and comes with crimp, sleeve and clamp connections.

6. A.O. Smith

An updated 16-page Residential Water Heater Catalog covers the company's entire line of water heaters. New additions include the ProStar™ on-demand tankless gas water heater and a line for manufactured housing.

7. E.L. Mustee

E.L. Mustee & Sons introduced the UTILATOP™ laundry tub top cover, model 19.204A. It conceals the tub interior and provides additional counter space. The heavy-duty molded thermoplastic cover overlaps the tub sides to lock in place. It features a white, colorfast surface.

8. Sloan Valve

Sloan Valve Co. introduced the Optima Plus® ERF Series sensor-operated faucet, which uses patented RF technology that provides a wireless link between the spout and the battery-powered control module. It enhances sensor operation and reduces false detection by combining both passive infrared and active infrared technologies, and audible signals provide installation guidance and diagnostic cues, such as a low-battery alert.

9. Elkay

Elkay has a new collection of lavatory sinks designed for children's bathrooms. They are fabricated from solid-surface composite material and available in seven vivid colors and six designs, including tulips, fish, butterflies and hearts.

10. Bradford White

A new heat trap design will be installed on all residential gas and electric water heater models with 3/4-inch NPT top inlet and outlet water connections. They can also be purchased as service parts for installation on older non-heat trap style dip tube and anode rod assemblies. The design incorporates a small disc that reduces heat loss, creates a true dielectric connection on the top water inlet and outlet fittings and reduces noise associated with ball-type style heat traps.